Bulimia Nervosa
Definition:
Bulimia nervosa, also called bulimia, is a psychological eating disorder that is characterized by episodes of binge eating (consuming a large quantity of food in one sitting) followed by inappropriate methods of weight control, such as vomiting, fasting, enemas, excessive use of laxatives and diuretics, or compulsive exercising.
Signs and Symptoms:
Bulimia nervosa, also called bulimia, is a psychological eating disorder that is characterized by episodes of binge eating (consuming a large quantity of food in one sitting) followed by inappropriate methods of weight control, such as vomiting, fasting, enemas, excessive use of laxatives and diuretics, or compulsive exercising.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Eating uncontrollably followed by purging
- Vomiting or abusing laxatives or diuretics in an attempt to lose weight
- Using the bathroom frequently after meals
- Excessive exercising
- Preoccupation with body weight
- Dental problems
- Sore throat
- Depression or mood swings
- Feeling out of control
- Swollen glands in neck and face
- Heartburn, indigestion, bloating
- Irregular periods
- Weakness, exhaustion, bloodshot eyes
- Erosion of tooth enamel because of repeated exposure to acidic gastric contents
- Dental cavities
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold food
- Swelling and soreness in the salivary glands (from repeated vomiting)
- Stomach ulcers
- Ruptures of the stomach and esophagus
- Disruption in the normal bowel release function
- Dehydration
- Irregular heartbeat
- Heart attack (in severe cases)
- Lower libido (sex drive)
- Higher risk for suicidal behavior